St James, Jamaica — As Montego Bay repositions itself for a post-pandemic tourism rebound, city leaders are taking a hard look at one of the island’s most iconic stretches—Jimmy Cliff Boulevard, formerly the Hip Strip.
Plans are now taking shape to introduce a permanent police presence along the corridor, with a new post being proposed at Old Hospital Park. The aim: strengthen visitor safety and support renewed economic activity on the Strip, which has long served as a cultural and commercial magnet for tourists.
“This isn’t just about infrastructure—it’s about confidence,” a city official familiar with the discussions told JA Monitor. “Montego Bay is evolving, and with that comes a responsibility to meet global expectations for security and order.”
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to establish the area as a Business Improvement District (BID)—a public-private model used in cities around the world to revitalize commercial corridors. Once formalized, the BID would allow for pooled resources among businesses to fund improvements in sanitation, beautification, and public safety.
While formal approval of the police post remains pending, insiders say the concept has broad support from both the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo) and the St James Municipal Corporation. Notably, the proposed outpost would leverage existing infrastructure to expedite deployment.
Local business owners have quietly welcomed the move, especially in light of increasing reports of visitor discomfort and vendor aggression. Several hoteliers have reportedly submitted formal letters to authorities expressing concern about harassment incidents, some of which have surfaced on social media.
“Tourism isn’t just about beaches and hotels anymore,” one property manager said. “It’s about atmosphere. If guests don’t feel safe, they don’t return.”
Jimmy Cliff Boulevard has long straddled the line between charm and chaos. Once a vibrant strip of entertainment, it’s seen cycles of decline and renewal over the decades. But with international arrivals rebounding and cruise lines returning in force, the city is under pressure to modernize its most visible corridors.
The BID framework, now reportedly over 80% complete, could serve as a turning point for the Strip. The police post, sources say, is meant to be both symbolic and functional—a signal to investors, tourists, and locals that Montego Bay is serious about reclaiming the space.
As discussions continue, stakeholders remain cautiously optimistic. The sentiment across the board: restoring the Strip’s reputation is not just a civic project—it’s a national priority.
